Tanzania is facing growing unrest following the re-election of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, whose sweeping victory has been overshadowed by deadly protests and allegations of electoral malpractice. The National Electoral Commission declared Hassan the winner with about 98 percent of the votes, extending her leadership for another term.

However, opposition parties and rights groups have described the election as one of the most violent in the country’s recent history. Protests erupted across several regions, including Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, and Arusha, after claims surfaced of ballot manipulation and intimidation at polling stations.

Violence and Crackdown

Reports from international news agencies, including Al Jazeera and Reuters, confirm that hundreds are feared dead following clashes between protesters and security forces. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as soldiers and police attempted to disperse crowds using tear gas and live ammunition.

The Tanzanian government has yet to release an official death toll, but opposition leaders claim that as many as 700 civilians may have been killed during the unrest. Independent human rights organisations say the figure remains unverified but confirm that several people were detained, including journalists and activists covering the protests.

Authorities also imposed a nationwide internet shutdown and a dusk-to-dawn curfew, restricting communication and movement in major cities. Civil society groups have criticised the move, calling it an attempt to silence public outcry.

In her post-election speech, President Hassan called for calm and unity, urging citizens to “focus on rebuilding and moving forward.” She acknowledged the unrest but dismissed opposition claims as “politically motivated.”

International observers, including the United Nations and African Union, have expressed concern over the reports of violence and the fairness of the election process. Several Western governments have also urged Tanzanian authorities to conduct an independent investigation into the alleged human rights abuses.

As the situation develops, Tanzania remains tense, with many citizens calling for dialogue and justice. The government’s next steps could determine how quickly peace and stability return to the nation.